Virginia State Parks is partnering with area natural resource managers to assess potential controlled burn sites.
Resource managers meet at Douthat State Park toassess potential controlled burn locations
On February 9, 2012, natural resource managers from the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Douthat State Park.
The meeting identified the potential for a controlled burn of 150 acres at the park. These partners also discussed ecological benefits of burning and the advantages of pooling equipment and workforce.
The Virginia State Parks desired future conditions initiative encourages the use of controlled burns as a resource management tool. The controlled burns help encourage oak tree regeneration. It also assists in the removal of invasive species brought about by decades of fire exclusion.
Controlled burns reduce the natural fuel built up on the forest floor to lower the danger from wildfires. Fires return valuable nutrients to the soil and open the area to sunlight. It also stimulates new growth and provides wildlife food and improves habitat.
Controlled burns are conducted with safety as a primary consideration. Burns are implemented according to a written plan and managed by professional well-trained crews. A controlled burn will only take place under very specific weather conditions and only when every reasonable precaution has been taken to contain the fire.
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For general park information Douthat State Park at [email protected]. Douthat is located at 14239 Douthat State Park Road, Millboro, VA 24460.
Overnight reservations can also be made by calling 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or by booking on line.